Good point, Peggy. l) Here is the URL to "Access to Archival Databases." NARA's holdings plus wars, but not WW 1 >>>> http://aad.archives.gov/aad/ In cases such as this, you might try to simplify the original URL, by deleting the ending of it. TIP: On top left, in red are "ADD Tools." Click on Drop Down menu for info re records. 2) RE: World War 2...This link shows WW2 in 5 groups. http://aad.archives.gov/aad/series-list.jsp?cat=WR26 NOTES: a) Those who were "active duty" prior to FDR's declaration of war, may be excluded. b) Navy/Marine/Seabee and Army records are separate. 3) Obtaining WW2 Military records & 1973 Fire in St. Louis a) Many folks are told the fire is the cause of lost records. Yes, there was a fire, but it was 40 years ago and files have been reconstructed, though not completely. (I'm hoping our Daniel will chime in here, as he worked there then.) b) The DD214, separation from military number, helps you get the correct records, but is not mandatory if you can provide enough details. c) The site states minimum 3 month wait, as long as 6 months. File it and mark your calendar. They ask that you not file multiple requests. d) You can write to your U.S. Congressmen and they can obtain military records for you. We elected these folks; make them work for you. DIRECTORY of U.S. Congress by email>>>>Click on your state; choose Congress person. http://www.congressmerge.com/onlinedb/ Last point. Often links such as these are links to an Index, not the full information. I invite everyone to "read the fine print" on websites, explore them, read Directions. Every repository has links telling you HOW to use their site, usually has a list of HOLDINGS, and guides you through finding your specific family. You need to understand the process, in order to obtain the records that you want. Barb ==================== From: Peggy Bowman peggy.bowman47@gmail.com I followed your instructions but found nothing. When I went through the National Archives over 6 months ago, I filled out the form and waited and waited. I finally received a letter back saying WWII Army records were all destroyed in a fire 30 or so years ago. ================================== mizscarlettny via <nybrooklyn@rootsweb.com> wrote: You may want to search for your World War II veterans here. http://aad.archives.gov/aad/series-list.jsp?cat=WR26 Choose one of 5 categories and click on the top "Search" button. Enter your surname in the box top left. When results appear, click on "View Records." If there is more than one record of your chosen surname, click one each separately. Voila! Barb